The demolition of the Babri Masjid and the subsequent construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is a complex and contentious chapter in Indian history. The events surrounding this issue involve political, religious, and social dimensions that have had a lasting impact on the country. Here is an overview of the sequence of events leading to the demolition of the Babri Masjid and the construction of the Ram Mandir:
### Historical Background:
The Babri Masjid, located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, was built in the 16th century by Mughal emperor Babur. The site, however, has been a point of contention for centuries, as some Hindus believe it to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. This led to sporadic tensions and conflicts over the years.
### 1984-1989: The Shilanyas and the Rise of the Ayodhya Movement:
In 1984, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a right-wing Hindu organization, initiated the Shilanyas (foundation stone-laying ceremony) for the construction of a Ram temple near the Babri Masjid. The issue gained momentum, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a political ally of the VHP, openly supported the Ayodhya movement. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the BJP, was also actively involved in mobilizing support for the temple.
### 1990: The Rath Yatra and Demolition of the Babri Masjid:
In 1990, BJP leader L.K. Advani embarked on a Rath Yatra (chariot journey) to garner support for the construction of the Ram temple. The yatra resulted in widespread communal tensions. On December 6, 1992, a large mob of karsevaks (Hindu volunteers) gathered in Ayodhya and, despite assurances from political leaders, demolished the Babri Masjid. The destruction of the mosque triggered communal riots across India, leading to significant loss of life and property.
### 1993: Formation of the Liberhan Commission:
Following the Babri Masjid demolition, the government appointed the Liberhan Commission to investigate the events leading to the incident. The commission took several years to submit its report, which laid blame on various political leaders and organizations for their involvement in the demolition.
### 2002: Godhra Train Burning and Gujarat Riots:
In 2002, the burning of a train in Godhra, Gujarat, which resulted in the deaths of Hindu pilgrims, sparked communal violence. The subsequent Gujarat riots led to widespread atrocities against Muslims. The BJP, led by then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, faced allegations of inadequate intervention during the riots.
### 2010: Allahabad High Court Verdict:
The Allahabad High Court, in 2010, delivered a verdict on the Ayodhya title dispute. It divided the disputed land into three parts, with one-third going to the Sunni Waqf Board, one-third to the Nirmohi Akhara, and one-third to the party representing Lord Ram, which included the deity and the birthplace.
### 2019: Supreme Court Verdict and Construction of Ram Mandir:
The Supreme Court of India, in November 2019, delivered a landmark judgment, awarding the entire disputed land in Ayodhya to the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust. The court emphasized that the demolition of the Babri Masjid was unlawful. Following the verdict, the construction of the Ram Mandir began, and the foundation stone was laid in a grand ceremony in August 2020.
### Contemporary Relevance:
The Babri Masjid demolition and the Ram Mandir construction remain politically and socially significant in India. It has shaped the country’s political landscape, with the BJP, which played a pivotal role in the events, becoming a dominant political force. The issue has also deepened religious fault lines, influencing public discourse and identity politics.
In conclusion, the sequence of events leading to the Babri Masjid demolition and the subsequent construction of the Ram Mandir reflects the complexities of India’s sociopolitical landscape. The issue remains a symbol of religious tensions, political maneuvering, and societal divisions that continue to impact the nation’s trajectory.